Black Coats Are Well and Good, But in L.A., It Girls Know This Color Looks Better With Dark-Wash Denim

Winter officially begins in four days, but there has already been a major shift toward warmer fabrics and a darker color palette. This is especially evident in denim, as dark-wash jeans are increasingly replacing light-blue jeans. While I'm seeing this winter denim trend styled mainly with black coats, Kendall Jenner is making the case for a fresh coat color: chocolate brown.

While heading to dinner in L.A. this weekend, Jenner was spotted in a chic denim outfit consisting of straight-leg dark-wash jeans, a black T-shirt, and a mid-length brown leather jacket. To accessorize, she chose a red bandana tied around her head as well as a tote bag and her favorite ballet flats, both from The Row.

Yes, a black coat would have been a classic option for Jenner to pair with her dark-wash jeans, but her decision to go with something a bit more unexpected is what made this outfit stand out. Plus, she went against the grain of what some believe you should do—match the color of your jacket to your shoes and your bag. Expert dressers like Jenner know that your outfit will look more polished when they intentionally don't match.

On Kendall Jenner: The Row Lilou Woven Leather Shoulder Bag ($3350) and Stella Ballet Flats ($920)

Chocolate brown is a popular color this winter for accessories and clothing, and every brand under the sun has embraced the trend. The shade offers a luxurious touch, particularly in smooth leather. It's a timeless alternative to black but has added depth that makes it feel more distinctive.

I'm now certain that a brown jacket is the most elegant way to style dark-wash jeans from December until March. If you're ready to embrace this sophisticated combination, scroll down to shop similar dark-wash jeans and chocolate-brown coats to re-create the model's effortlessly cool look.

Shop Dark-Wash Jeans

Zw Collection

High-Waist Wide Leg Jeans

I love the relaxed nature of this pair.

levi's

501 Original Fit Jeans

You can't go wrong with classic Levi's 501 jeans.

Something about these just gives off cool-girl vibes.

If you're going to invest in one denim trend this winter, make sure it's slim-straight jeans.

Agolde

Miro Relaxed Jeans

The Agolde team just shared with me that the Miro jeans have quickly become one of the brand's most iconic denim styles since its launch—and rightfully so. The subtle barrel leg gives a tailored, elevated look without sacrificing comfort.

Hudson

Rosie High-Rise Wide Leg

Style this pair with ankle boots and a sweater for brunch with friends.

Shop Chocolate-Brown Coats

Bardot

Faux Leather Trench Coat

Re-create Jenner's look with this chocolate-brown leather coat.

Black wool coats are chic, but fashion people in NYC know that chocolate-brown ones look much more expensive.

Rails

Luis Faux Leather Jacket

How cute is the shearling collar?

Zw Collection

100% Suede Coat Limited Edition

I don't know why it's so hard to find an expensive-looking brown suede coat under $500. Lucky for me, Zara just dropped this one.

Madewell

Faux-Fur Shawl-Collar Coat

If I owned this coat, I'd pair it with black leather pants or indigo jeans, black pumps, and a tan suede bag.